Fiber optic cable with flexible conduit

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to a fiber optic cable that includes a plurality of internal optical fibers and a fiber optic cable portion. The fiber optic cable portion includes an outer jacket and an inner conduit, the inner conduit containing the plurality of optical fibers disposed therein. The fiber optic cable further includes a flexible conduit portion, wherein the flexible conduit portion has a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is secured to the fiber optic cable portion and the distal end has a terminating device. The terminating device at least partially encases the flexible conduit portion, and the plurality of optical fibers passes through the flexible conduit portion and the terminating device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 16/725,078,filed Dec. 23, 2019. Application Ser. No. 16/725,078 is a divisional ofapplication Ser. No. 16/105,747, filed Aug. 20, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No.10,514,520. application Ser. No. 16/105,747 is a divisional ofapplication Ser. No. 14/918,764, filed Oct. 21, 2015, now issued as U.S.Pat. No. 10,054,753, which application claims the benefit of provisionalapplication Ser. No. 62/091,108, filed Dec. 12, 2014; 62/082,479, filedNov. 20, 2014; 62/072,842, filed Oct. 30, 2014; and 62/069,158, filedOct. 27, 2014, which applications are incorporated herein by referencein their entirety. A claim of priority, to the extent appropriate ismade to each of above-referenced applications.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to telecommunicationsequipment. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to fiberoptic cabling and the method of making thereof.

BACKGROUND

Telecommunications equipment containing optical fibers is known. Fiberoptic cables that carry a plurality of optical fibers over distances toconnect to equipment are also known. Some cables, such as trunk cables,are often configured to have a low flexibility. Because of the lowflexibility, it is often difficult to maneuver the cables around tightbends and within small places. This becomes a problem when attempting toconnect the cables to telecommunications equipment. Because of this,there is a need for a system, method and device to improve theflexibility of the cables, specifically near the end that connects totelecommunications equipment.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber optic cable thatincludes a plurality of internal optical fibers and a fiber optic cableportion. The fiber optic cable portion includes an outer jacket and aninner conduit, the inner conduit containing the plurality of opticalfibers disposed therein. The fiber optic cable further includes aflexible conduit portion, wherein the flexible conduit portion has aproximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is secured to the fiberoptic cable portion and the distal end has a terminating device. Theterminating device at least partially encases the flexible conduitportion, and the plurality of optical fibers passes through the flexibleconduit portion and the terminating device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of making afiber optic cable. The method includes providing a fiber optic cablethat has an inner conduit and an outer jacket. The inner conduitcontains a plurality of optical fibers. The method further includesproviding a flexible conduit that has proximal and distal ends, andstripping a portion of the outer jacket from the fiber optic cable toexpose a portion of inner conduit. The method further includes securingthe proximal end of the flexible conduit to the exposed portion of theinner conduit of the fiber optic cable, thereby creating a junction. Themethod further includes securing a coupling device to the flexibleconduit and to the outer jacket of the fiber optic cable, the securingmechanism encasing the junction. The method further includes securing aterminating device to the distal end of the flexible conduit, theterminating device being configured to allow for passage of theplurality of optical fibers therethrough.

Various claims are disclosed for connecting the flexible conduit tofiber optic equipment.

A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the descriptionthat follows. The aspects can relate to individual features and tocombinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoinggeneral description and the following detailed description are exemplaryand explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventiveconcepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings are illustrative of particular embodiments of thepresent disclosure and therefore do not limit the scope of the presentdisclosure. The drawings are not to scale and are intended for use inconjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description.Embodiments of the present disclosure will hereinafter be described inconjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like numerals denotelike elements.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a fiber optic cable, accordingto one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic side view of the fiber optic cable shownin FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 of the fiberoptic cable shown in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of thefiber optic cable shown in FIG. 3 .

FIG. 5 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of thefiber optic cable shown in FIG. 3 .

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a fiber optic cable, accordingto one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic side view of the fiber optic cable shownin FIG. 6 .

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view along line 8-8 of the fiberoptic cable shown in FIG. 7 .

FIG. 9 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of thefiber optic cable shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of thefiber optic cable shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 11 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a fiberoptic cable, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a fiberoptic cable, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a piece of telecommunicationsequipment, including a plurality of fiber optic cables secured thereto,according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of the piece of telecommunicationsequipment of FIG. 13 with a top cover removed, a rear cover pivotedopen, and representative internal cables.

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a piece of telecommunicationsequipment mounted to a rack, according to one embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a piece of telecommunicationsequipment, including a modular clamping system, according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates an exploded perspective view of thetelecommunications equipment shown in FIG. 16 .

FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of the telecommunications equipmentshown in FIG. 16 .

FIG. 19 illustrates a top view of the telecommunications equipment shownin FIG. 16 .

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of a clamp half according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 illustrates a front view of the clamp half shown in FIG. 20 .

FIG. 22 illustrates a top view of the clamp half shown in FIG. 20 .

FIG. 23 illustrates a rear view of the clamp half shown in FIG. 20 .

FIG. 24 illustrates a cross-sectional view along line A-A of the clamphalf shown in FIG. 20 .

FIG. 25 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of theclamp half shown in FIG. 20 .

FIG. 26 illustrates a perspective view of a piece of telecommunicationsequipment, including a modular clamping system, according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 27 illustrates an exploded perspective view of thetelecommunications equipment shown in FIG. 26 .

FIG. 28 illustrates a side view of the telecommunications equipmentshown in FIG. 26 .

FIG. 29 illustrates a top view of the telecommunications equipment shownin FIG. 26 .

FIG. 30 illustrates a perspective view of a clamp mounted to a fiberoptic cable according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 30 illustrates a perspective view of a clamp according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 31 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the clamp shown inFIG. 30 .

FIG. 32 illustrates a top view of the clamp shown in FIG. 30 .

FIG. 33 illustrates a cross-sectional view along line 33-33 of the clampshown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 34 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of theclamp shown in FIG. 33 .

FIG. 35 illustrates a perspective view of a clamp half according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 36 illustrates a front view of the clamp half shown in FIG. 35 .

FIG. 37 illustrates a top view of the clamp half shown in FIG. 35 .

FIG. 38 illustrates a rear view of the clamp half shown in FIG. 35 .

FIG. 39 illustrates a perspective view of a clamp half and flexibleconduit portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 40 illustrates a front view of the clamp half shown in FIG. 39 .

FIG. 41 illustrates a rear view of the clamp half shown in FIG. 39 .

FIG. 42 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembled shownin FIG. 39 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detailwith reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numeralsrepresent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views.Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of theinvention, which is limited only by the scope of the claims attachedhereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification arenot intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the manypossible embodiments for the claimed invention.

The present disclosure describes, generally, a fiber optic cable, suchas a trunk cable, that has a robust construction and can include manyoptical fibers. Typically such cables provide sufficient optical fiberprotection, but are relatively stiff. The fiber optic cable can have anincreased flexibility at an end that connects to telecommunicationsequipment. The increased flexibility of the cable allows for improvedease of use during installation. Additionally, protection of theinternal components of the cable (e.g. the optical fibers) has not beencompromised.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fiber optic cable 10. FIG. 2 is aschematic side view of the fiber optic cable 10 in FIG. 1 . The fiberoptic cable 10 can include a plurality of optical fibers 12 disposedtherein. In some embodiments, the optical fibers 12 can be part of aribbon cable. In other embodiments, the optical fibers 12 can be loosewithin the cable 10. In other embodiments, the optical fibers 12 caneach have a fiber optic connector 13 attached to the end. The fiberoptic connectors 13 can be configured to interface with likeconnector-receiving devices, such as fiber optic adapters. The fiberoptic cable 10 can further include a trunk cable portion 14. The trunkcable portion 14 can have an outer jacket 16. The fiber optic cable 10can also have a flexible conduit portion 18. In some embodiments, theflexible conduit portion 18 can be made of plastic. In otherembodiments, the flexible conduit portion 18 can be made of a metal(e.g. aluminum and steel).

The flexible conduit portion 18 should have a crush-proof constructionso as to properly protect the optical fibers 12 located within theconduit. In some embodiments, the flexible conduit portion 18 may beclamped to another surface during installation, creating the need tohave a crush-proof construction of the flexible conduit portion 18. Theflexible conduit portion 18 has a proximal end 20 and a distal end 22.The proximal end 20 can be adjacent an end of the trunk cable portion 14of the fiber optic cable 10. The proximal end 20 of the flexible conduitportion 18 can be secured to the trunk cable portion 14 by a couplingdevice 24. The distal end 22 of the flexible conduit portion 18 can havea terminating device 26 through which the optical fibers 12 passthrough. In some embodiments, the distal end 22 can be configured tointerface with telecommunications equipment.

The flexible conduit portion 18 includes a tubular construction. In oneembodiment, the tubular construction is substantially closed in a360-degree surrounding of the internal optical fibers. In oneembodiment, the tubular construction is continuous in cross-sectionalong the full length of flexible conduit portion 18. The tubularconstruction can have corrugations or other shapes to allow forflexibility and fiber protection from bending excessively or kinking.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view along the line 3-3 in FIG. 2 . Thecoupling device 24, as shown, can be connected to the outer jacket 16 ofthe trunk cable portion 14 and to the flexible conduit portion 18,thereby enclosing a junction 32 created by the flexible conduit portion18 and the trunk cable portion 14. In the depicted embodiment, thecoupling device 24 can be constructed of an overmold. In someembodiments the overmold may be constructed from plastics such asurethanes and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and hard plastics such asnylon and polycarbonate. Near the distal end 22 of the flexible conduitportion 18, the terminating device 26 can be disposed over the end ofthe flexible conduit portion 18 to enclose the end of the flexibleconduit portion 18. This configuration can be advantageous because theterminating device 26 can protect the plurality of optical fibers 12from damage originating from any sharp edges on the end of the flexibleconduit portion 18. In some embodiments, the terminating device 26 maybe an overmold constructed from the same material as the coupling device24.

In some embodiments, the trunk cable portion 14 can also include aninner conduit 28. The inner conduit 28 can be disposed within the outerjacket 16 of the cable. The inner conduit 28 can also be constructed ofa like material as the outer jacket 16. In still other embodiments, thetrunk cable portion 14 can include a plurality of strength members 30disposed between the outer jacket 16 and the inner conduit 28. Thestrength members 30 can be constructed of aramid yarn in someembodiments. The strength members 30 can help to provide tensilestrength to the trunk cable. The strength members 30 can be held by theovermold of the coupling device 24 and/or the flexible conduit portion18. In the depicted embodiment, at the junction 32, the flexible conduitportion 18 can be sized so as to be disposed over a portion of the innerconduit 28. The inner conduit 28 then can terminate generally near theproximal end 20 of the flexible conduit portion 18. In some embodiments,the inner conduit 28 terminates at the junction 32, encased by thecoupling device 24. In some embodiments, the portion of the flexibleconduit portion 18 between the proximal end 20 and the distal end 22will only contain the plurality of optical fibers. Near the distal end22, the flexible conduit portion 18 can be enclosed by the terminatingdevice 26, the plurality of optical fibers 12 passing therethrough.

FIG. 4 is a closer view of a portion of the fiber optic cable 10 asshown in FIG. 3 . The coupling device 24 can encase the entire junction32. In some embodiments, the coupling device 24 may be secured to theouter jacket 16 and/or the flexible conduit portion 18 by way of anadhesive or epoxy to prevent the loosening of the junction 32 during themanipulation of the fiber optic cable 10. In other embodiments, theproximal end 20 of the flexible conduit portion 18 may be secured to theinner conduit 28 of the trunk cable portion 14 by way of an epoxy.

FIG. 5 is a closer view of a portion of the fiber optic cable 10 asshown in FIG. 3 . The terminating device 26 can be secured to theflexible conduit portion 18 by an adhesive.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fiber optic cable 110 according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a side view of the fiberoptic cable 110 in FIG. 6 . The fiber optic cable 110 can have a similarconstruction to the fiber optic cable 10 as shown in FIGS. 1-5 . Thefiber optic cable 110 can have a plurality of optical fibers 112disposed within the cable, each fiber can have a fiber optic connector113 attached to the end. In addition, the fiber optic cable 110 can havea trunk cable portion 114, a flexible conduit portion 118, a couplingdevice 124, and a terminating device 126. The trunk cable 114 can havean outer jacket 116, and the flexible conduit portion 118 can have aproximal end 120 and a distal end 122. The terminating device 126 canfurther include a fan-out device 127. The fan-out device 127 can beconfigured to separate each optical fiber 112, or groups of fibers 112,each fiber having their own furcation tube 115 for protection.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view along the line 8-8 in FIG. 7 . Thecoupling device 124 that encloses a junction 132 in the depictedembodiment can be heat shrink tubing. In some embodiments, the heatshrink tubing can also include an adhesive. The terminating device 126can be heat shrink tubing configured to enclose and seal the flexibleconduit portion 118 and the fan-out device 127 together. Similar to thefiber optic cable 10, the trunk cable portion 114 can include in innerconduit 128 that can be configured to terminate near the junction 132.

FIG. 9 is a closer view of a portion of the fiber optic cable 110 asshown in FIG. 8 . The coupling device 124 can be configured to seal andadhere the junction 132 at the proximal end 120 of the flexible conduit118 so that junction 132 is protected and that it remains strong enoughto allow maneuverability during the installation process.

FIG. 10 is a closer view of a portion of the fiber optic cable 110 asshown in FIG. 8 . The terminating device 126 located adjacent the distalend 122 of the flexible conduit 118 can also include a fan-out device127. The fan-out device 127 can include a body portion 129 and a fan-outcap 131. The fan-out cap 131 can be configured to fit within at least aportion of the fan-out body portion 129. The fan-out body portion 129can be configured to be fit around a portion of the flexible conduitportion 118. Specifically, the fan-out device 127 can be configured tobe fit over the outside of the distal end 122 of the flexible conduit118. In some embodiments, the fan-out device 127 can be secured to theflexible conduit 118 by way of an epoxy. In other embodiments, thefan-out device 127 can be secured to the fiber optic cable 110 by theterminating device 126.

FIG. 11 is a breakout view of a portion of the fiber optic cable 110. Inthe depicted embodiment, a portion of the outer jacket 116 of the trunkcable portion 114 can be stripped back from the end of the trunk cableportion 114 to expose a portion of the inner conduit 128. In someembodiments, the trunk cable portion 114 can include a plurality ofstrength members 130 which can also be stripped together with the outerjacket 116. The strength members can be aramid yarn to improve thestrength of the cable. The proximal end 120 of the flexible conduit 118can then be secured to the inner conduit 128, thereby joining theflexible conduit portion 118 and the trunk cable portion 114, creatingthe junction 132. In some embodiments, epoxy may be used to strengthenthe connection between the inner conduit 128 and the flexible conduit118. A coupling device 124 can then be secured over the junction 132. Insome embodiments, the coupling device 124 may be loosely disposed aroundeither the trunk cable portion 114 or the flexible conduit portion 118,prior to installation around the junction 132. Specifically, in someembodiments, the coupling device 124 can be secured to the outer jacket116 and the outer surface of the flexible conduit portion 118. In someembodiments, the coupling device 124 is a heat shrink material. In suchan embodiment, after the coupling device 124 is placed around thejunction 132, a heat source is used to activate the heat shrink materialto seal and secure the junction 132. The strength members 130 can beincluded under the heat shrink material and/or within the epoxy betweenthe inner conduit 128 and the flexible conduit 118.

FIG. 12 is a breakout view of a portion of the fiber optic cable 110. Insome embodiments, the terminating device 126 may secured to the distalend 122 of the flexible conduit portion 118 alone, allowing theplurality of optical fibers 112 to pass through the terminating device126 unaltered. In other embodiments, the fan-out device 127 can be used.The body 129 of the fan-out device 127 may be coupled to the distal end122 of the flexible conduit 118. The fan-out device cap 131 can then besecured to the body 129, effectively breaking out the optical fibers112, providing each fiber 112, or groups of fibers 112, with its ownfurcation tube 115. The terminating device 126 can then be securedaround the fan-out device 127 and the distal end 122 of the flexibleconduit portion 118. Similar to the coupling device 124, the terminatingdevice 126 can be a heat shrink material in some embodiments. In such anembodiment, after the terminating device 126 is placed around thefan-out device 127 and the distal end 122 of the flexible conduitportion 118, a heat source can be used to activate the heat shrinkmaterial to seal and secure the terminating device 126 to the fan-outdevice 127 and the flexible conduit portion 118.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of telecommunications equipment 200. Inthe depicted embodiment, a plurality of fiber optic cables 210, similarto those described above, are shown connected to telecommunicationsequipment 200. The telecommunications equipment 200 can include a topcover 250 and a rear cover 252 to cover the internal components of thetelecommunications equipment 200. The telecommunications equipment 200can also include a plurality of mounting brackets 254. The mountingbrackets 254 can be configured to be mounted to standard storagesolutions for telecommunications equipment 200. For illustrationpurposes, two of the fiber optic cables 210 use an overmold for acoupling device 214 and a termination device 226, and two cables useheat shrink material for a coupling device 216 and a termination device228. It is contemplated to be within the scope of this application thatany combination of fiber optic cables 210 using differing coupling andtermination devices can be used together. As shown, the fiber opticcables 210, specifically the ends that include the terminating devices226, can be connected to a piece of telecommunications equipment 200. Insome embodiments, the fiber optic cables 210 can be secured to thetelecommunications equipment 200 using clamps 202. The flexible conduitportions 18, 118 can be bent as desired to facilitate use with equipment200.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the telecommunications equipment 200 of FIG. 13. FIG. 14 is shown with the top cover 250 removed and the rear cover 252partially open. As depicted, the internal components 204 of thetelecommunication equipment 200 are visible. In some embodiments, theplurality of optical fibers 212 within each fiber optic cable 210 mayenter the telecommunications equipment 200 and be connected at atermination location 230 within the telecommunications equipment 200.The termination locations 230 are in the form of LC type adapters, foreach receiving two aligned connectors 13. Other connector and adaptertypes are possible, such as SC type (single fiber) and MPO type(multiple fibers). As shown, four LC blocks are used in equipment 200for each tray. Other blocks of adapters, duplex adapters, simplexadapters, and MPO adapters can be used. Modules with internal breakoutsor splitters can also be used.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of telecommunications equipment, accordingto one embodiment of the present disclosure. The telecommunicationsequipment 301 can include a frame or chassis 300. The frame or chassis300 can be mounted to a rack 302. In some embodiments, the rack 302 maybe configured to hold a plurality of frames or chassis 300. As shown, afiber optic cable 310 can be bent prior to entering the chassis 300. Thefiber optic cable 310 can include a flexible conduit portion 318 toallow for such maneuverability like bending. It is also contemplatedthat the fiber optic cables 310 may wrap around a side of the frame orchassis 300.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, the flexible conduitportions 18, 118, 318 have greater flexibility than trunk cable portions14, 114. Further, the jacket or jackets of trunk cable portions 14, 114terminate such that only optical fibers are contained within a portionof flexible conduit portions 18, 118, 318 to both protect the opticalfibers and allow for increased bending of the cable relative to thestiffer trunk cable portions 14, 114. Preferably, each flexible conduitportion 18, 118, 318 includes a terminating device 26, 126 to allow theoptical fibers to exit the flexible conduit portions 18, 118, 318, andto enter fiber optic telecommunications equipment.

In some implementations, the flexible conduit portions 18, 118, 318 canbe filled with a gel substance. The gel substance aids inweatherproofing the flexible conduit as the gel is water-blocking. Thesealant can be advantageous if the fiber optic cable is installedoutdoors. In some embodiments, the trunk cable can be filled with thegel. In other embodiments, the gel can be inserted into the flexibleconduit after the conduit is filled with optical fibers from the openend near the terminating device 26, 126. In still other embodiments, theflexible conduit may include the gel prior to the installation of theoptical fibers within the flexible conduit. In other embodiments still,the flexible conduit can include a port configured to receive the gelthat is be inserted into the flexible conduit. It will be appreciatedthat various materials can be used to in substitute for the gel toweather proof the flexible conduit.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of telecommunications equipment 400 atwhich optical cables are received. Specifically, the telecommunicationequipment 400 includes a rear cover 402, a plurality of fiber opticcables 404 similar to the fiber optic cables described above, and amodular clamping system 406. The rear cover 402 can be similar to therear cover 252 shown and described with respect to FIG. 13 . Inaddition, in some embodiments, the rear cover 402 may be mounted to thechassis 300, as shown in FIG. 15 . Additional details regarding examplesof the rear cover 402 and chassis 300 can be found in U.S. PatentApplication No. 62/082,429, filed Nov. 20, 2014, and titled “Fiber OpticCable with Flexible Conduit,” the disclosure of which is incorporatedherein by reference. Further, the modular clamping system 406 isconfigured to secure the fiber optic cables 404 to the rear cover 402.

A first cable 404 can be secured to the rear cover 402 using a firstclamp 425 a. In some implementations, a second cable 404 can be securedto the rear cover 402 by mounting a second clamp 425 b to the firstclamp 425 a. In certain implementations, the structure of the firstclamp 425 a and the structure of the second clamp 425 b aresubstantially identical. Each clamp 425 s, 425 b defines holes thatalign with each other. As will be described in more detail herein, tosecure the first clamp 425 a directly to the rear cover 402, fastenersare inserted through only some of the holes. Other holes defined by thefirst clamp 425 a are left empty. To secure the second clamp 425 b tothe first clamp 425 a, fasteners are inserted through the holes definedby the second clamp 425 b that correspond with the holes that had beenleft empty in the first clamp 425 a. The fasteners also extend throughthe previously empty holes of the first clamp 425 a to reach the rearcover 402.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the telecommunications equipment 400, asshown in FIG. 16 . In the depicted embodiment, the rear cover 402 caninclude an outside portion 408, an inside portion 410, and an endportion 412. In some embodiments, the outside portion may be connectedto the end portion 412 by way of a hinge 414 to allow for the outsideportion 408 to swing open away from the plurality of fiber optic cables404. In some embodiments, the outside portion 408 may be secured to theinside portion 410 by way of two thumb screws 416. Further, the insideportion 410 of the rear cover 402 can also include a hinge 417 and amounting plate 420 for mounting to a chassis similar to the chassis 300,as shown in FIG. 15 . The inside portion 410 of the rear cover 402 alsoincludes a plurality of mounting holes 411. The mounting holes 411 areconfigured to help secure the modular clamping system.

The modular clamping system 406 can include a plurality of clamp halves422. Each clamp half 422 is paired with a corresponding clamp half 422to form a complete clamp 425, thereby securing a single fiber opticcable 404. Each clamp half 422 can include a plurality of mounting holes423 configured to receive a plurality of clamp fasteners 426. In theexample shown in FIG. 17 , four first clamps 425 a hold two firstoptical cables 404 a and four second clamps 425 b hold two secondoptical cables 404 b. In other examples, a greater or lesser number ofclamps 425 can be utilized to hold optical cables 404 at the rear cover402.

The first clamps 425 a each include a pair of clamp halves 422 a and thesecond clamps 425 b each include a pair of clamp halves 422 b. Incertain embodiments, the clamp halves 422 a of the first clamp 425 a canbe joined by a plurality of clamp fasteners 426 a and the clamp halves422 b of the second clamp 425 b can be joined by a plurality of clampfasteners 426 b. In some embodiments, the fasteners may be threaded. Inother embodiments, the fasteners may be a bolt and nut combination. Eachfastener 426 is configured to mate a pair of clamping halves 422together and to mount the clamped fiber optic cable 404 to the insideportion 410 of the rear cover 402. In the depicted embodiment, the fiberoptic cables 404 are attached to the rear cover 402 by way of eightclamping halves 422 and sixteen clamp fasteners 426.

The fiber optic cables 404 a that are positioned nearest to the insideportion 410 of the rear cover 402 are secured to the rear cover 402using the clamp halves 422 a. The fiber optic cables 404 b are securedto the rear cover 402 using the clamp halves 422 b. As shown, thefasteners 426 a used with the clamp halves 422 a are shorter than thefasteners 426 b. Once the fiber optic cables 404 a nearest the insideportion 410 of the rear cover 402 are secured, the outside fiber opticcables 404 b may be secured without removing the clamp halves 422 a thatsurround the inside fiber optic cable 404 a. The outside clamping halves422 b use longer fasteners 426 b that pass through both the outsideclamping halves 422 b and the inside clamping halves 422 a beforepassing through the mounting holes 411 of the inside portion 410 of therear cover 402.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the telecommunications equipment 400, as shownin FIG. 16 . In the depicted embodiment, the modular clamping system 406can mount the fiber optic cables 404 to the inside portion 410 of therear cover 402 at a point on the flexible conduits 418 prior to theterminating devices 427.

FIG. 19 is a top view of the telecommunications equipment 400, as shownin FIG. 16 . In the depicted embodiment, the fasteners 426 can passthrough the clamping halves 422 a, 422 b, the inside portion 410 of therear cover 402, and through a washer device 428 to secure the fiberoptic cables 404. In addition, as depicted, the clamp halves 422 a, 422b can be mounted directly adjacent to one another.

FIGS. 20-22 show a clamp half 522, according to one embodiment of thepresent disclosure. FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the clamp half 522,FIG. 21 is a front view of the clamp half 522, and FIG. 22 is a top viewof the clamp half 522. The clamp half 522 can have a length L and awidth W. In some embodiments, the length L can be between about 54 andabout 56 millimeters. In other embodiments, the length L can be about 55millimeters. In other embodiments, the width W can be between about 33and about 43 millimeters. In other embodiments, the width W can be about42 millimeters. In other embodiments, the width W can be about 34millimeters.

The clamp half 522 also includes a plurality of mounting holes 523 thatpass through the clamp half 522 from a front face 530 to a rear face532. The mounting holes may be spaced along the length L of the clamphalf 522 at a distance D1. In addition, the mounting holes 523 may bespace along the width W of the clamp half 522 at a distance D2. In someembodiments, the distance D1 can be between about 12 and about 16millimeters. In other embodiments, the distance D1 can be about 14millimeters. In other embodiments, the distance D2 can be between about25 and about 35 millimeters. In other embodiments, the distance D2 canbe about 34 millimeters. In other embodiments, the distance D2 can beabout 26 millimeters.

In the depicted embodiment, the mounting holes 523 have a stepped bore.The clamp half 522 may have a plurality of indentations 534 to helpminimize the amount of material needed to manufacture the clamp half522. In some embodiments, the clamp half 522 may be made frompolycarbonate-ABS.

FIGS. 23-24 show a rear view of the clamp half 522 and side sectionalview along line A-A of the clamp half 522, respectively. The rear face532 of the clamp half 522 can have an end profile having an arcuateshape, as shown in FIG. 24 . The arcuate end profile can have a firstdiameter R1 and a second diameter R2. In some embodiments, R1 and R2 areequal. In other embodiments, R1 and R2 can be different distances. Thearcuate shape of the rear face 532 can be configured to nest against aflexible conduit like 18, 118, 318, or 418 mentioned above. Thedimensions of both the rear face 532 arcuate profile and the overallclamp half 522 can be customized to fit a variety of different flexibleconduit shapes. In some embodiments, the clamp half may be sized for a288F cable with a flexible conduit attached. In other embodiments, theclamp half 522 may be sized for a 576 cable with a flexible conduitattached. In still other embodiments, the clamp half may be sized for a864F cable with a flexible conduit attached. In some embodiments, whenR1 and R2 are equal, the radius can be between about 23 millimeters andabout 33 millimeters. In other embodiments, when R1 and R2 are equal,the radius can be about 24 millimeters. In other embodiments still, whenR1 and R2 are equal, the radius can be about 32 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the rear face 532 has a plurality of securingprotrusions 536. The securing protrusions 536 can be configured to bepositioned within indentations, or grooves, of a flexible conduit like18, 118, 318 or 418 mentioned above. By being positioned in theindentations or groves of the flexible conduit when mounted to theflexible conduit, the securing protrusions prevent the flexible conduitfrom moving in a direction along its central axis within the assembledclamp. In some embodiments, the securing protrusions 536 also can assistin preventing the flexible conduit from rotating relative the assembledclamp. Such securing protrusions 536 prevent the need to exert a highcrushing force on the flexible conduit to prevent axial movement of theflexible conduit within the modular clamping system.

FIG. 25 is a close-up view of the stepped mounting hole 523 through theclamp half 522. The larger diameter portion 538 of the stepped mountinghole 523 can be sized to seat a fastener flush with the front face 530of the clamp half 522. In some embodiments the mounting holes 523 mayhave a countersink, including a chamfer.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of telecommunications equipment 600 atwhich optical cables are received, according to one embodiment of thepresent disclosure. Similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 16 , thetelecommunication equipment 600 includes a rear cover 602, a pluralityof fiber optic cables 604, and a modular clamping system 606. In thedepicted embodiment, the modular clamping system 606 also includes aplurality of integral fan-out devices. The rear cover 602 can be similarto the rear cover 252 shown and described with respect to FIG. 13 andthe rear cover 402 shown in FIG. 16 . In addition, in some embodiments,the rear cover 602 may be mounted to the chassis 300, as shown in FIG.15 . Additional details regarding examples of the rear cover 602 andchassis 300 can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 62/082,429,filed Nov. 20, 2014, and titled “Fiber Optic Cable with FlexibleConduit,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 16 , the modular clampingsystem 606 is configured to secure the fiber optic cables 604 to therear cover 602. For example, first and second clamps 625 a, 625 b securefirst and second cables 604 a and 604 b to the rear cover 602. In someimplementations, the structure of the first clamp 625 a and thestructure of the second clamp 625 b are substantially identical, and thesecond clamp 625 b is mounted to the first clamp 625 a. Additionally,like the modular clamping system 404 in FIG. 16 , the modular clampingsystem 606 uses fasteners of varying sizes inserted through only some ofthe holes in the clamps 625 a, 625 b, to fasten the system 606 to therear cover 602. Other holes defined by the second clamp 625 b are leftempty. To secure the second clamp 625 b to the first clamp 625 a,fasteners are inserted through the holes defined by the second clamp 625b that correspond with the holes that had been left empty in the firstclamp 625 a. The fasteners also extend through the previously emptyholes of the first clamp 625 a to reach the rear cover 602.

FIG. 27 is an exploded view of the telecommunications equipment 600, asshown in FIG. 26 . In the depicted embodiment, and similar to theembodiment in FIG. 17 , the rear cover 602 includes an outside portion608, an inside portion 610, and an end portion 612. The outside portion608 is connected to the end portion 612 by way of a hinge 614. In someembodiments, the outside portion 608 may be secured to the insideportion 610 by way of thumb screws 616. Further, the inside portion 610of the rear cover 602 can also include a hinge 617 and a mounting plate620 for mounting to a chassis similar to the chassis 300, as shown inFIG. 15 . The inside portion 610 of the rear cover 602 also includes aplurality of mounting holes 611. The mounting holes 611 are configuredto help secure the modular clamping system 606.

As depicted, four clamps 625 are used to secure four cables 604. In someembodiments, the clamps 625 may at least partially surround the fiberoptic cables 604 and at least partially surround a plurality offurcation tubes 609. In some embodiments, the furcation tubes 609 arebraided sleeves. In certain embodiments, the first clamp 625 a can besecured to the inside portion 610 of the rear cover 602 by way of aplurality of fasteners 626 a that pass through the mounting holes 611 ofthe inside portion 610 of the rear cover 602. In certain embodiments,the first clamp 625 a is secured to the second clamp 625 b, by way ofanother set of fasteners 626 b. The fasteners 626 b pass through thefirst and second clamps 625 a, 625 b and the mounting holes 611 of theinside portion 610 of the rear cover 602. In some embodiments, thefasteners may be threaded. In other embodiments, the fasteners may be abolt and nut combination. Each fastener 626 is configured to passthrough a clamp and mount the clamped fiber optic cable 604 to theinside portion 610 of the rear cover 602. In the depicted embodiment,the fiber optic cables 604 are attached to the rear cover 602 by way offour clamps 625 and sixteen clamp fasteners 626. Once the fiber opticcables 604 a nearest the inside portion 610 of the rear cover 602 aresecured by fasteners 626 a, the outside fiber optic cables 604 b may besecured using fasteners 626 b without removing the clamps 625 a thatsurround the inside fiber optic cable 604 a.

FIG. 28 is a side view of the telecommunications equipment 600, as shownin FIG. 26 . In the depicted embodiment, the modular clamping system 606can mount the fiber optic cables 604 to the inside portion 610 of therear cover 602. In some embodiments, the outside portion 608 of the rearcover 602 at least partially covers a portion of the modular clampingsystem 606.

FIG. 29 is a top view of the telecommunications equipment 600, as shownin FIG. 26 . In the depicted embodiment, the fasteners 626 can passthrough the clamps 625 a and 625 b and the inside portion 610 of therear cover 602 to secure the fiber optic cables 604. In addition, asdepicted, the clamps 625 a, 625 b can be mounted directly adjacent toone another.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a clamp 625 secured to a fiber opticcable 604. As shown, one end of the clamp 625 is configured to mountover a portion of the fiber optic cable 604, specifically the portionhaving a flexible conduit 618. The other end of the clamp 625 is shownto include a fan-out device 627. The fan-out device 627 can beconfigured to separate optical fibers contained within the fiber opticcable 604. In some embodiments, each fiber has their own furcation tube609 for protection.

FIG. 31 is an exploded view of a clamp 625. In the depicted embodiment,the clamp 625 can include two halves 622 a, 622 b. Each half isconfigured to interface with the other half so as to encase a portion ofthe fiber optic cable 604, specifically the portion of the fiber opticcable 604 that includes a flexible conduit 618. In some embodiments, thetwo halves 622 a, 622 b can be substantially identical. Also, as shown,the halves 622 a, 622 b can be configured to accept a fan-out device627.

The fan-out device 627 can include an end cap 640 and press-in sleeve642. The end cap 640 can include a plurality of holes 641. The holes 641can be sized to fit a plurality of furcation tubes 609. Additionally,the press-in sleeve 642 can include a plurality of protrusions 643. Thepress-in sleeve can be configured so that each protrusion 643 is sizedto fit within each hole of the end cap 640.

To assemble the clamp 625, the optical fibers (not pictured) within thefiber optic cable 604 are first broken out. The fibers are then threadedthrough the press-in sleeve 642. After passing through the press-insleeve 642, the fibers are threaded through the holes 641 of the end cap640 and into the furcation tubes 609. Next, the furcation tubes 609 arepassed through the holes 641 on the end cap 640. The press-in sleeve 642is then pressed into the ends of the furcation tubes 609 and positionedso that each furcation tube 609 and each protrusion 643 of the press-insleeve 642 are positioned in the holes 641 of the end cap 640 (see FIG.34 ). The end cap 640 is then positioned between the two clamp halves622 a, 622 b. Finally, the assembled clamp 625 is created by securingthe two clamp halves 622 a, 622 b around the end cap 640 and the fiberoptic cable 604, specifically the flexible conduit portion 618.

FIG. 32 is a top view of an assembled clamp 625. As shown, the clamphalves 622 a, 622 b can be adjacently positioned to one another so as toform the clamp 625. In some embodiments, the clamp halves 622 a, 622 bcan each include a plurality of quick fasteners 629. In the depictedembodiment, the quick fasteners 629 are molded clips. In the view shown,the clips are integral with clamp half 622 b. Clamp half 622 a caninclude a plurality of receiving slots 631 configured to receive eachclip from 622 b. In some embodiments, the bottom view of the clamp 625can be identical to the top view, except that the clamp half 622 a hasclips and the clamp half 622 b has the receiving slots. The quickfasteners 629 are configured to allow the installer of the clamps toquickly secure the two clamp halves 622 a, 622 b to one another.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view along line 33-33 of FIG. 32 . Asdepicted, the fiber optic cable 604, specifically the flexible conduitportion 618, is partially enclosed by the two clamp halves 622 a, 622 b.Each clamp half 622 a, 622 b can include a plurality of ribs 635 thatprotrude from each clamp half. In some embodiments, the ribs 635 areconfigured to interface with the flexible conduit portion 618 of thefiber optic cable 604. The ribs 635 act to prevent axial movement of theflexible conduit 618 within the clamp 625.

The assembled clamp 625 also includes a pocket 633. The pocket 633 isconfigured to house optical fibers, or groups or optical fibers, as theyprotrude from the fiber optic cable 604. The pocket 633 is located inthe clamp 625 in a space adjacent the fan-out device 627.

FIG. 34 is a close-up view of a portion of the fan out device 627 ofFIG. 33 . As depicted, the press-in sleeve 642 is shown positionedwithin the end cap 640 of the fan-out device 627. Specifically, a singleprotrusion 643 of the press-in sleeve 642 is shown passing through asingle hole 641 of the end cap 640. Further, a single furcation tube 609is shown to be positioned over the protrusion 643 so that a portion ofthe furcation tube 609 surrounds the protrusion 643.

FIGS. 35-38 show a clamp half 622, according to one embodiment of thepresent disclosure. FIG. 35 is an isometric view of the clamp half 622.In the depicted embodiment, the clamp half 622 has a rear face 632 thatincludes a plurality of features configured to interface with the fiberoptic cable (e.g. cable 604 in FIG. 30 ) and to secure the clamp half622 with another identical clamp half. As mentioned above, the clamphalf 622 includes receiving slots 631 and quick fasteners 629. The quickfasteners 629 are configured to be paired with receiving slots ofanother clamp half, and the receiving slots 631 of the clamp half 622are configured to be paired with the quick fasteners of another clamphalf. The clamp half 622 also includes a plurality of pegs 644 and aplurality of peg receiving holes 646. The pegs 644 and peg receivingholes 646 are configured to pair with corresponding pegs and pegreceiving holes of another clamp half. The pegs and peg receiving holeshelp to align the clamp halves.

The rear face 632 also includes a plurality of ribs 635 and securingprotrusions 650 both designed to interface with the fiber optic cable604, specifically the flexible conduit portion 618. Adjacent the ribs635 and securing protrusions 650 is the pocket 633 configured to houseoptical fibers. Additionally, the clamp half 622 can include an end capreceiving portion 648 configured to receive a portion of an end cap(e.g. end cap 640 in FIG. 31 ).

FIG. 36 is a front view of the clamp half 622, and FIG. 37 is a top viewof the clamp half 622. The clamp half 622 can have a length L₂ and awidth W₂. In some embodiments, the length L₂ can be between about 130.00and about 140.00 millimeters. In other embodiments, the length L₂ can beabout 137.50 millimeters. In other embodiments, the width W₂ can bebetween about 55.00 and about 65.00 millimeters. In other embodiments,the width W₂ can be about 61.83 millimeters.

The clamp half 622 also includes a plurality of mounting holes 623 thatpass through the clamp half 622 from a front face 630 to the rear face632. The mounting holes may be spaced along the length L₂ of the clamphalf 622. In addition, the mounting holes 623 may be spaced along thewidth W₂. In some embodiments, the mounting holes 623 have a steppedbore. The mounting holes 623 are configured to receive a plurality offasteners (e.g. fasteners 626 in FIG. 27 ). In the depicted embodiment,the mounting holes 623 are configured to pass through the pegs 644 andpeg receiving holes 646 on the rear face 632 of the clamp half 622, asshown in FIG. 35 .

Still in other embodiments, the clamp half 622 may have a plurality ofindentations 634 to help minimize the amount of material needed tomanufacture the clamp half 622. In some embodiments, the clamp half 622may be made from polycarbonate-ABS. Further, in the depicted embodiment,the front face 630 of the clamp half 622 includes a label portion 652configured to receive an adhesive label or offer a generally smoothsurface for writing on the clamp half 622.

FIG. 38 shows a rear view of the clamp half 622. The rear face 632 ofthe clamp half 622 can at least partially have an end profile having anat least partially arcuate shape to accommodate the fiber optic cable.The arcuate shape of the portion of the rear face 632 can be configuredto nest against a flexible conduit like 18, 118, 318, 418, or 618mentioned above. The dimensions of both the rear face 632 arcuateprofile and the overall clamp half 622 can be customized to fit avariety of different flexible conduit shapes. Like the embodimentoutlined in FIGS. 16-25 , the clamp half 622 may be sized for a 288Fcable with a flexible conduit attached. In other embodiments, the clamphalf 622 may be sized for a 576 cable with a flexible conduit attached.In still other embodiments, the clamp half may be sized for a 864F cablewith a flexible conduit attached.

FIG. 38 also shows the rear face 632 including the plurality of securingprotrusions 650 and ribs 635. In addition, the pocket 633 and end capreceiving portion 648 are positioned adjacent to the ribs 635 andsecuring protrusions 650. The securing protrusions 650 can be configuredto be positioned within indentations, or grooves, of a flexible conduitlike 18, 118, 318, 418 or 618 mentioned above. By being positioned inthe indentations or grooves of the flexible conduit when mounted to theflexible conduit, the securing protrusions 650 and ribs 635 prevent theflexible conduit from moving in a direction along its central axiswithin the assembled clamp. In some embodiments, the securingprotrusions 650 and ribs 635 also can assist in preventing the flexibleconduit from rotating relative the assembled clamp. Such securingprotrusions 650 and ribs 635 prevent the need to exert a high crushingforce on the flexible conduit to prevent axial movement of the flexibleconduit within the modular clamping system.

FIG. 39 shows two clamp halves 722 a, 722 b of a clamp 725 and aflexible conduit portion 718, according to one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 40 shows the front face 730 of the clamp half 722, andFIG. 41 shows the rear face 732 of the clamp half 722. FIG. 43 is a topcross-sectional view of the assembled clamp 725. In the depictedembodiment, the clamp halves 722 a, 722 b are substantially identical.

The clamp half 722 is similar to the clamp half 622 shown in FIG. 35 andincludes a fan-out portion 727. In the depicted embodiment, the flexibleconduit portion 718 includes a securing feature 723. The securingfeature 723 is configured to interface with the clamp halves 722 a, 722b so that, once the clamp halves 722 a, 722 b are joined around theflexible conduit portion 718, the securing feature 723 prevents theflexible conduit portion 718 from rotating relative to the assembledclamp 725. As shown, the securing feature 723 is a pair of holes. Inother embodiments, the securing feature 723 is an indentation, orindentations, in the flexible conduit portion 718. In still otherembodiments, the securing feature 723 is an adhesive, or glue. In thedepicted embodiment, the clamp half 722 includes a boss 724. The boss724 of each clamp half 722 can be configured to interface with thesecuring feature of the flexible conduit portion 718. The boss 724 canbe a protrusion from the rear face 732 of the clamp half 722. In thedepicted embodiment, the boss 724 of each clamp half 722 is configuredto be positioned within each securing feature 723, or hole, when the twoclamp halves 722 a, 722 b are joined to form a complete clamp 725.Therefore, by being positioned within the securing feature 723, eachboss 724 resists rotation of the clamp relative to the flexible conduitportion 718.

From the foregoing detailed description, it will be evident thatmodifications and variations can be made in the devices of thedisclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

1.-25. (canceled)
 26. A fiber optic cable comprising: a plurality ofoptical fibers; a flexible conduit portion defining a plurality ofcorrugations and extending to a first end, wherein the plurality ofoptical fibers pass through the flexible conduit portion; and aterminating device secured to the first end of the flexible conduitportion such that the plurality of optical fibers pass through and exitthe terminating device, the terminating device including a plurality ofsecuring protrusions engaging with the corrugations of the flexibleconduit to prevent axial movement of the flexible conduit relative tothe terminating device.
 27. The fiber optic cable of claim 26, whereinthe terminating device is formed from a plastic material.
 28. The fiberoptic cable of claim 26, wherein the terminating device surrounds theflexible conduit.
 29. The fiber optic cable of claim 26, wherein theterminating device includes a cap.
 30. The fiber optic cable of claim26, wherein the terminating device includes a fanout portion.
 31. Thefiber optic cable of claim 26, wherein the terminating device includes afirst portion overlapping with the flexible conduit portion and a secondportion extending axially beyond the first end of the flexible conduitportion.
 32. The fiber optic cable of claim 31, wherein the terminatingdevice defines a receiving portion defining at least one recess.
 33. Thefiber optic cable of claim 32, wherein the receiving portion is locatedon the second portion of the terminating device.